Javier Estades, CEO of Tabacalera USA, was re-elected chairman of the Cigar Association of America at the association’s recent annual meeting.
“I am excited to continue as Chairman of CAA and proud of all the big wins we have achieved for the cigar industry,” Estades said. “We still have challenges ahead, but CAA is ready to continue fighting against improper, overreaching efforts by FDA and state and local governments.”
As head of Tabacalera USA, Estades oversees Fort Lauderdale-based premium cigar company Altadis U.S.A., the distributor and marketer of brands Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, and H. Upmann. He is also responsible for online retailer JR Cigar, and cigar stores Casa de Montecristo, which feature premium cigars, smoking accessories, walk-in humidors, lounges, and full bars across the U.S.
Estades was first elected chairman of the CAA in November 2015. CAA is a Washington D.C.-based national trade association representing all aspects of the cigar industry. Its roots date to organizations that existed before 1900.